Gustation

Gustation, or taste, is the sensory process that allows us to perceive flavors through taste buds on our tongue. These taste buds detect five basic qualities: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami (savory). When we eat or drink, chemicals from food interact with taste receptors, sending signals to the brain that identify the flavor. This system helps us enjoy food, identify nutrients, and avoid harmful substances. Taste works together with smell, texture, and temperature to create the full experience of flavor.